Strathtay put out previous champions Kintore

The Mail on Sunday
06 Jul 2014

Strathtay are the giant killers of the sixth round of The Mail on Sunday Classic knocking out former champions Kintore in a 5-0 whitewash that has captured the imagination of the local community, writes Cara Sloman.The highland Perthshire club only has 25 playing members to select a team from but that has not stopped them reaching the last 32 in the world's largest golf club team competition.‘You just need committed members, who are prepared to play for the club and go for it,’ said team captain Simon Gray, who won his match 3&2.One such member is club champion John MacBeth who drives an hour and half from Dumfries to play. The five handicapper’s efforts were rewarded with a 3&1 victory.Gray, a nine handicapper, said: ‘This was a great result for us. We did know they won two years ago and knew it was going to be a tough game. There’s a bit of confidence running through the team right now.’The club is a nine-hole course with 18 tees. ‘A lot of local knowledge is required,’ said Gray, who owns the local shop and post office. ‘Kintore struggled a little bit with the small greens, which are quick but quite undulating.’Two of the matches went to the last hole. Keith Walker finished one up, as did Graham Forsyth, who recovered from being three down at the turn. Iain Michie had the easiest win, triumphing 4&3.Local residents are keen to support the team and have been popping into the club for news on how the side fared against the 2012 champions.Gray said: ‘We’re enjoying the tournament because it is bringing confidence to the club and the residents in the area. They’ve been congratulating us. It’s good for the moral of the community.‘We have our fingers crossed for another home draw but we have the possibility to go away and get a result. It all depends on the day, so we’ll see what happens.’